FAQ
LIFE SAFETY
What is a security system?A system designed to detect intrusion- unauthorized entry- into a building or area. Security systems are used in residential, commercial, industrial and military properties for protection against burglary (theft) or property damage, as well as personal protection against intruders.
How is a wireless home security system different from wired systems today?A fully wireless system uses individual sensors throughout the home which communicate wirelessly to the central control panel, typically using radio frequency technology. The control panel will then communicate wirelessly to the outside world using a cellular “uplink.” Essentially, your system will have a cell phone of its own. A fully hardwired alarm system connects the sensors to the control panel with a network of wires, concealed within the walls and floors of your home.
Are you able to monitor my current home security system?We are able to monitor almost every type of security system. We will be happy to do a free consultation of your current home security system. Please call the office at 239-597-9077 to set up an appointment time.
Do I need a home phone or internet to get a security system installed?The simple answer is no. Cellular can offer nearly the same level of reliability as traditional phone lines if battery units are well-maintained at your home. Traditional phone lines still offer the most reliable service for alarm communications, but they lack the speed and features of newer technologies. Internet is becoming more reliable, especially when properly installed with battery backup equipment.
What happens when my home alarm goes off and I am not there?The signal will be received at the monitoring center and then the operator will attempt to contact the first person on the call list or home phone number. If no answer, the monitoring center will call the second person on the list. If no answer, they will dispatch the police and try to call the third person on the contact list. If contact is made with the first or second contact person, then a passcode/password must be given to cancel the call. If the code given is incorrect, dispatch will still occur.
Who does it call?It will call the central monitoring station after the alarm goes off. Central monitoring will call the people on the contact list for the home/business owner and then police, fire and medical.
Will my dog or cat set off the motion detector?Pets can set off motion detectors, but we can adjust as needed. We also have other alternatives to motion detecting, i.e., glass breaks that can be discussed with your sales consultant.
If I lose power, will my alarm still work?If the power goes out for a few hours, the alarm system will still work. As soon as you lose power, the battery back up on the panel will take over the system for approximately 24 hours.
WHOLE HOME ENTERTAINMENT/AUTOMATION
What is home automation? The technology gives you access to control and interconnect devices in your home for a mobile device or PC anywhere in the world. The term may be used for isolated programmable devices, like thermostats and sprinkler systems, but home automation more accurately describes homes in which nearly everything — lights, home audio, televisions, pools, heating and cooling systems — are hooked up to a remotely controllable network. From a home security perspective, this also includes your alarm system, and all the doors, windows, locks, smoke detectors, surveillance cameras and any other sensors that are linked to it.
What happens to my home automation system if I move?If your current home automation system is wireless, then we can simply transfer all of your hardware to your new home. However, if your new home needs to be re-wired, we will be happy to accommodate your wiring needs at a competitive price.
Is it possible to control my home automation with my smartphone?Home automation technologies like lighting and climate controls have evolved in the last few years to become smarter and more usable, in part by allowing programming from smartphones and tablets. So again, you can control your home lifestyle needs in the palm of your hand.
How many devise can control automation?You can have as many smartphones, PCs or tablets with have access to the app.
CCTV HOME SURVEILLANCE/CAMERAS
What happens if one of my cameras stops working?We should be able to help you with that. Please call the office at 239-597-9077 and speak to our service team. We will be able to guide you through some trouble shooting steps. If that does not get your camera back online, we will schedule an appointment for a service technician to come out for a nominal fee.
What video services are offered?Total Connect video provides live look ins and records 10 second clips when motion is detected at your premises. The recording of motion video clips is the best way for end users to get the full usage of their video systems, as well as the Honeywell Total Connect app and web site provide quick searching of events, letting customers know within minutes what’s been happening in front of their cameras.
DVR and NVR services are what to use to view, manage and store surveillance videos are high security applications. They provide real time recording, live look in, playback and records to device on site and you can pull video from the system, as well as providing you with an average of 30 days recording time.
Am I able to snap shot the intruder?Yes, you can pull video footage and save the clips, even take a snapshot in real-time.
Who monitors my cameras when I am not home?You can have our monitoring center monitor your cameras while away or you can retrieve the historical footage from the system.
WARRANTY/SERVICE
What is the warranty on my equipment?Most of our equipment is a one year of parts and labor. Please speak with your account manager as to what your equipment allows.
What if the equipment is struck by lightning?Lightning would not be covered under the warranty from the manufacturer. Please refer to your home owners insurance to verify coverage. Or you can speak to your sales consultant about surge protection options.
Do I have to fill out registration on my equipment?No, we will handle registering your equipment with the manufacturer.
Does my contract automatically renew after it expires?If you do not contact the office about cancelling after your contract expires, your contract will automatically renew.
Can I get out of my contract?You are able to cancel at the end of your signed contract. But please check with your sales consultant as to your contract terms.
Will I be notified of any new technology or upgrades that I can have added to my system?If you are on our emailing list, we will keep you updated to any new technology that has come on to the market that might enhance your current system even more for your life style and life safety.